How2Day: The Types of GMC Jeeps

GMC offers a variety of jeep-style SUVs. fog lights on suv image by Kathy Burns from Fotolia.com
General Motors has a variety of jeep-style (crossover) SUV models in its fleet of award-winning vehicles that are comparable to its rival Chrysler's Jeep brand of jeeps and SUVs. GM's lineup continues the American car maker's tradition of comfortable and powerful, yet giant and fuel-inefficient, vehicles. These models are designed and built to hold a lot of passengers and carry a large payload. They are meant for rugged excursions and no-nonsense road use. They remain the choice of burly construction crews, famous entourages and large families who need their size and capacity for everything from commuting to the work site to rolling up at the club or going on a grocery run.

This large crossover can seat up to eight passengers in its massive cabin, with three rows of seating. A huge cargo area (117 cubic feet) compliments the spacious and comfortable interior offered by the Acadia. It also ranks superior with its safety standards. For its beastly size, the Acadia is surprisingly fuel-efficient, averaging 19 miles per gallon (mpg). However, its size compromises maneuverability and outward visibility.

GMC's luxurious midsize SUV sports a comfortable ride and plenty of features (depending on the model) including OnStar, a DVD entertainment system, sunroof, full power accessories and satellite radio among other amenities. Its six-cylinder engine can tow up to 6,000 pounds, but will only yield you an average of 12 mpg. The Envoy has received a five-star safety rating for its front- and rear-passenger-side impact protection.

As a compact crossover, the Terrain is well suited for families who need the extra space, but do not necessarily want to navigate a small bus down the road. Its cabin is designed for comfort over utility and the sleek interior is enhanced with noise-reduction technology, making the Terrain a comfortable and quiet ride. The standard four-cylinder engine will get you around 23 to 26 mpg. The Terrain's safety rating is "Good" according to Insurance Institute for Highway Safety tests.

The GMC Yukon is a traditional large SUV that combines comfort and power with performance and drivability. The Yukon can seat up to nine adults comfortably. It is popular for people who need not only the extra storage space, but also the capacity to haul heavy payloads. Its 5.3-liter V8 can tow 8,400 pounds. Expect to fill up frequently, as this SUV only gets 15 to 17 mpg. The Yukon comes equipped standard with 17-inch wheels, roof rails for additional storage, Bluetooth, OnStar, and a plethora of other features. The Yukon received five-star ratings in government crash tests. There is also a hybrid- and extended-version of the vehicle available.

How2Day